Only coach Alex Compton knows how deep exactly the Alaska Aces unit is, and that is the beauty of a system not built around particular players.
It gives all of his players — from top to bottom — the opportunity to shine in any given moment.
On Friday, in Alaska’s 95-74 conquest of the Star Hotshots, it was Nonoy Baclao’s turn to step on to the stage.
With Calvin Abueva almost a no-show in the second half due to foul trouble, Baclao took the spot and surprised the Hotshots with timely baskets that preserved the Aces’ lead amidst a comeback attempt from the defending PBA Governors’ Cup champions.
Averaging only 1.3 PPG in 8.5 minutes/game, Baclao poured 8 of his 10 points in the third quarter alone, and also finished with 5 rebounds. He was a perfect 5-for-5 from the field and a plus-12 in 17:42 of action.
The forward later shared it was about being patient as he knew his break woule come.
“Be patient lang. Iniisip ko lang palagi na darating rin ang playing time ko. Baka ako naman ngayon,” he said.
“I just believe in the system na lahat pwede umiskor, lahat pwede maka-deliver. The last time, Vic (Manuel) and Calvin (Abueva). Kumbaga, kapag may araw, bigay mo lang (sa kanila).”
Baclao may have never seem to satisfy the expectations when he entered the league, but with a penchant for stopping bigs and doing the dirty work underneath, Baclao would definitely thrive in a star-less system.
Compton praised him and another role player in Ping Exciminiano for their invaluable efforts in Game 2.
“I love watching Ping Exciminiano hitting threes and Noy Baclao playing like an all-star. I mean, how much does that help? You guys know the energy they give,” the Aces mentor said.
“Baclao has worked his butt off when he entered this team. Most games, he does not play but he is the epitome of a professional. He made shots but even bigger than that, we know he is a good defender.”
Hopping from one team to another, Baclao may have finally found his home with the Aces.
“The biggest difference siguro is yung pagiging family-oriented (ng team) at pagiging okay nila sa system ni coach Alex (Compton),” Baclao added.
